Advantages and Uses of I-Beams in Structural Steel Construction

As global consumption starts picking up in the post-pandemic world, structural steel fabrication and construction projects in cities has increased globally. For instance, in Australia, construction of large buildings rose 0.4% in the June 2022 quarter and this is expected to pick up in the next few months. In this regard, it is interesting to analyze a feature of building construction which is a mandatory requirement. This is the I-beam, installation of which is a must-have else the entire building structure is likely to collapse. So, what are the applications and benefits of I-beams in structural steel construction? This blog will cover this aspect in detail.

Advantages of I-Beams

As the name implies, the I-beam looks like the letter “I” as a cross-section. They are made using two long planes known as the “flange,” with a middle section that holds the two together called the “web.” These beams are generally made out of steel, although they are also made out of other types of alloys, such as aluminum alloys and low-alloy steel. It is used in both heavy and light metal fabrication; the benefits of I-beams are detailed as follows:-

1. Bears Higher Loads – The design of an I-beam makes it capable of bending under high stress instead of buckling. As the beam receives the load, the force is transmitted perpendicularly, thus supporting other members of the beams.
2. Has a High Moment of Inertia – The section at the center of the beam, or the neutral axis, does not resist bending due to the uniform distribution of the weight across the beam. Due to the distance between the flange and the axis, I-beams have a high moment of inertia.
3. Helps in Fabrication – Metal fabrication involves the cutting, bending, and shaping of structural steel. I-beams are very versatile and can be used in any steel construction projects. I beam steel fabrication is fast, efficient, and affordable to fulfil the orders and meet the demands of the project.
4. Reduces, Reuses, and Recycles – The production of I beams means minimum waste during construction. There are green practices in different countries making I-beam affordable. Almost half of the world’s steel is produced in electric plants to generate no CO2 emissions. Steel products can be recycled over and over again without compromising on their strength.

Where are I-beams used?

I-beams are extensively used in different applications of steel construction, especially by heavy steel fabrication companies. They are used more in manufacturing as compared to fabrication. Frames and vital support elements are where generally these beams are used. A strong and supportive structure is ensured with the usage of steel I-beams. The usage of these beams can be economically beneficial since they reduce the necessity to use too many support components. Their versatile and dependable nature makes them indispensable for contractors and engineers. I-beams are frequently used in constructions because they are simply functional. The unidirectional bending behavior is one of their best unique properties. The web component is responsible for withstanding shear stresses while flanges put resistance against bending. They are capable of meeting a variety of loads with no buckling. Since the I-shape does not require the usage of excessive steel, they can be considered cost-effective. There always exists a suitable type of I-beam for every construction purpose.

The Final Word

I-beams play a significant role in mitigating risks of deflection, bending, buckling and vibration during construction projects. As observed, I-beams possess multiple characteristics which enable stronger and more durable construction and these are leveraged by engineers globally. If the I-beam is bent side to side, it functions as an H where it will not be as efficient as an H-beam. However, the ubiquity of I-beams in all construction scenarios indicates that it is called “universal beam” for a good reason!